Kathmandu. Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Physical Infrastructure and Transport, and Urban Development Kulman Ghising has laid the foundation stone for the construction of multi-span suspension bridge over Karnali River linking Bardiya and Kailali.

He laid the foundation stone for the construction of a suspension bridge over the Karnali River linking Daulatpur of Rajapur Municipality-1 of Bardiya and Tikapur Park of Tikapur Municipality-5 of Kailali.

The bridge is 482.20 meters long and 1.60 meters wide, to be constructed through the Suspense Bridge Division under the Department of Local Infrastructure Development under the Ministry of Urban Development. The bridge will benefit around 2,000 households in both Daulatpur and Tikapur areas. Necessary structures will also be constructed in the middle part of the bridge so that photos can be taken.

In absence of a bridge at Daulatpurghat, boats have been used to travel on the Karnali River. Boats cannot be used during the rainy season, so the movement is going to be stopped. After the construction of the suspension bridge, the locals will be able to cross the river in a smooth manner throughout the year.

On the occasion, Minister Ghising said that the construction of the bridge would contribute to developing Rajapur and Tikapur as tourism areas. Minister Ghisi said that the government was serious to control the river erosion and make it safer to make it easier for the locals of Daulatpur to access colleges and hospitals in Tikapur bazaar area.

He directed the bodies concerned to complete the construction of the bridge within the stipulated time. As per the contract agreement, the bridge will be completed by July 11, 2084. Secretary at the Ministry of Urban Development Gopal Sigdel said the construction of the suspension bridge would lay the foundation for contributing to economic, social and educational development of Daulatpur area.

Mayor of Rajapur Municipality Dipesh Tharu and Mayor of Tikapur Municipality Ram Lal Dagaura Tharu said that the bridge will connect Sudurpaschim Province and Lumbini Province and the two districts. A contract agreement has been signed for the construction of the bridge at Rs 15.74 crore (including VAT).